Neon Tetra breeding

Breeding neon tetras can be a rewarding challenge for aquarium enthusiasts, but it requires specific conditions to be successful. Neon tetras are egg scatterers, meaning they release eggs that settle on the bottom of the tank or on plants. To encourage breeding, it’s essential to set up a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.0 to 6.5) and a temperature between 75°F and 78°F (24°C to 26°C). The breeding tank should be dimly lit and include fine-leaved plants like Java moss, which will provide cover for the eggs. A breeding pair or a small group of neon tetras should be introduced into the tank, and feeding them a high-quality diet of live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia will help trigger spawning.

After spawning, the adult tetras should be removed from the tank, as they may eat the eggs. The eggs usually hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry will become free-swimming a few days later. During this time, it is crucial to keep the tank in low light, as neon tetra eggs and fry are sensitive to light. The fry can be fed infusoria or commercially available liquid fry food until they grow large enough to eat baby brine shrimp. Regular water changes and careful attention to water quality are vital for the fry’s survival. Breeding neon tetras requires patience, but with the right setup and care, it is possible to raise a healthy new generation of these beautiful fish.